The NDC government, under President John Dramani Mahama, is demonstrating true leadership by amending L.I 2462 to end the President’s power to grant mining licenses in forest reserves. This, along with revoking all small-scale mining licenses issued after December 7, 2024, is a decisive response to the environmental destruction enabled by the previous NPP administration.
During the Akufo-Addo and Bawumia regime, illegal mining (galamsey) spiraled out of control, with top NPP officials actively involved. The Ashanti Regional Chairman’s ownership of Akonta Mines is a glaring example of how political influence was used to secure mining permits, leading to widespread deforestation and pollution of water bodies. Farmers, particularly cocoa growers, suffered immensely, with many being coerced into selling their farms to miners.
The NPP’s careless importation of mining equipment further exacerbated environmental damage. Instead of implementing regulations to protect water bodies and forests, the NPP empowered its party loyalists to exploit resources for personal gain, undermining Ghana’s agricultural productivity and economic stability.
The NDC, on the other hand, is drawing from international best practices employed by countries like Canada, Bolivia, and Norway. These nations have successfully adopted cooperative mining models involving local communities in decision-making. Such an approach ensures economic equity and sustainable resource management, principles the NDC is now integrating into its mining reforms.
By establishing a Technical Committee to audit mining operations, the NDC is reinforcing transparency, accountability, and environmental justice. Its policies are in harmony with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which emphasize environmental sustainability, climate action, and ethical governance.
Furthermore, the NDC has warned all its officials to avoid involvement in illegal mining. Unlike the NPP, which shielded corrupt party members, the NDC is sending a strong message that unethical behavior will not be tolerated.
The NDC’s plan to regulate the importation of destructive mining equipment is another critical step toward protecting Ghana’s natural resources. This strategy will restore degraded lands, preserve water bodies, and enhance agricultural production, securing economic opportunities for local communities.
The NPP’s legacy of corruption, environmental destruction, and negligence disqualifies it from leadership. It requires a complete overhaul to regain public trust. Until then, it must remain in opposition beyond 2028. Allowing the NPP to return to power would only endorse further destruction.
Ghanaians deserve a government dedicated to sustainable development, environmental protection, and economic justice. The NDC offers that vision, providing hope for a better, greener future for Ghana.
By: Abdul-Razak Yakubu (ARY)
International Development, Political and Governance Consultant
